The impact of these programs goes far beyond the fun activities planned. The Y believes that in a diverse world we are stronger when we are inclusive, when our doors are open to all and when everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. We know that lasting personal and social change comes about when we all work together. That’s why at the Y, our cause is to strengthen the foundations of our community. Every day, we work side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. Learn More

Specialized fitness offerings can relieve the severity of arthritis symptoms, including: Aqua Arthritis Designed for anyone with arthritis or similar conditions. Participants reduce stiffness and improve range of motion, muscle strength and endurance while supported with the water's buoyancy. Browse classes >

Balance and Mobility Challenges

A Matter of Balance A Matter of Balance is designed to reduce the fear of falling and increase the activity level of older adults who have this concern. The first step toward a healthier attitude toward falls and fear of falling is to understand one’s own beliefs or biases. The eight-session program meets weekly, and instructors cover how to set goals for increasing activity, make changes to reduce fall risks at home and how to increase strength and balance, all with a larger goal of viewing falls as controllable. Each class meets for two hours. The program is recommended by the National Council on Aging and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). A Matter of Balance is held at multiple YMCA of Greater Brandywine locations and typical participants are ages 65 and older, but registration is not limited to a specific age. The YMCA is dedicated to encouraging people of all ages and activity levels to improve their overall health and to providing a supportive community for individuals to pursue a healthier version of themselves. This class is available at the Coatesville YMCA, Jennersville YMCA, Kennett Area YMCA, Lionville Community YMCA, Upper Main Line YMCA and West Chester Area YMCA. Register Now Functional Fitness Functional Fitness improves mobility, balance and strength so that everyday activities can be completed with ease, minimizing the risk of injury. This program also serves as pre- or post-rehabilitation support. A YMCA personal trainer works with individuals based on their specific needs.

Cancer Patients and Survivors

LIVESTRONG at the YMCA LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is a health and wellness program developed and established in partnership with the LIVESTRONG Foundation to assist those who are living with, through or beyond cancer to strengthen their spirit, mind and body. The 12-week program includes cardiovascular conditioning, strength training, and balance and flexibility exercises and is facilitated by certified instructors. LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is available at no cost to participants and is open to any adult, aged 18 or older, who is living with or beyond cancer treatment. We offer LIVESTRONG programming in the Spring and Fall. Registration is required. Coatesville YMCA: . Jennersville YMCA: Contact Nichole Kilroy or Megan Lange at 610-869-9622, ext. 2525. West Chester: Contact or

Mental Health & Mindfulness

At the Y we encourage all in our community to identify self-care practices that can help enhance their mental health—and to start building these practices into their daily routine. Mental health includes how we think, feel, and act, as they are all interconnected. Browse Programs

Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s Cycle For adults with various stages of Parkinson’s, our Parkinson’s Cycle class incorporates research conducted at the Cleveland Clinic which showed a 35% reduction in symptoms by pedaling a bicycle. Browse Classes

Rehabilitation and Strength

Functional Fitness Functional Fitness improves mobility, balance and strength so that everyday activities can be completed with ease, minimizing the risk of injury. This program also serves as pre- or post-rehabilitation support. A YMCA personal trainer works with individuals based on their specific needs.

Health Management and Disease Prevention Programs

About half of all adults – 117 million people - have one or more chronic conditions, such as arthritis, kidney disease or diabetes.

Chronic conditions account for $3 out of every $4 spent on healthcare, which is why we offer health management and disease prevention programs. To help more people transition from medical treatment to sustained health and wellness, the YMCA of Greater Brandywine's Prescribe the Y program offers nutrition and exercise programs designed to bridge the gap between clinical care and community care. Through evidence-based Prescribe the Y programs and the support of our strong Y community, individuals can take control of their health and well-being to maintain long-term health benefits

Individuals can self-refer to our programs or can talk to their doctor! The YMCA of Greater Brandywine partners with physicians and health care providers to refer patients through a confidential referral process.